
Johns, Tardio dominate Martinez Vich, Wright for men’s doubles title
Ben Johns/Gabe Tardio cruised to an 11-1, 11-6, 11-2 victory over No. 6 seeds Jaume Martinez Vich/Matt Wright to capture their fourth title as a partnership.
Johns/Tardio were pushed to a decider in the semifinals by Riley Newman/Jay Devilliers, but they brought their best on Sunday with Johns showcasing lethal precision with his backhand attack out the air.
That, combined with Tardio’s rapid counters on the right side, helped the top seeds come away with a comfortable triumph.
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Up to a career-best No. 3 in the PPA men’s doubles rankings, Tardio is certainly enjoying his partnership with Johns so far.
“He definitely makes my life so much easier,” he said. “I feel like I’m barely playing, so it’s great to have him on my side.”
Even though their event ended with a loss, Martinez Vich/Wright gave fans one of the best stories of the week in east Tennessee.
They flew into the finals after tight three-game victories over No. 2 seeds Federico Staksrud/Hayden Patriquin and No. 11 seeds Tyson McGuffin/Max Freeman, carried by Martinez Vich’s unpredictable attacks on the left and Wright’s craftiness on the right.
Johns applauded the run from the 48-year-old Wright, with whom he has won eight titles.
“It’s truly impressive. I’ve played him for many years—he’s an awesome player and an awesome guy—so it was just really fun to see him in another final,” he mentioned. “I hope to see him in some more, and I hope I’m still moving that well at 48.”
In the bronze medal match, Newman/Devilliers defeated McGuffin/Freeman by an 11-4, 11-9 score line.
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